Three years ago today, I woke up at 4:30am, grabbed a thermos full of hot coffee and headed into work. At the time, I was working as an apprentice to the head pastry chef at a private yacht club in my hometown and Thanksgiving was our busiest day of the year. If you’ve been reading my blog for three years you certainly remember my pastry school days! When I got into work that day, the kitchen was already active and alive. Stock pots were bubbling on the stove, vats of stuffing were already in the oven and my boss was already there, sticking what would be one of sixty pies, in the oven. For the next ten hours, I piped buttercream into whoopie pie after whoopie pie, baked dozens of loaves of rustic bread and put the finishing touches on what felt like a million pumpkin pies.
I remember driving the two hours home to have Thanksgiving dinner with my family, little did I know it would be the last Thanksgiving dinner we would ever have all together. When my brother was alive.
I haven’t been back home for Thanksgiving since then. After he died and after I moved to California I just wanted to stay. Going home was too hard and everything was still too real and raw. I remember hiking to the top of a mountain here in Sonoma on my first Thanksgiving alone and breaking down sobbing at the top.
This year, I’m thankful to be home.
I’m thankful for everything I’ve gone through in the past three years that has brought me to the place where I am now.
Three years ago writing a book was a bucket list item, something I never thought to accomplish until I was at least thirty. Today, I’m eagerly awaiting my publication date of next Fall (finally!) after working on my manuscript for what felt like an eternity.
I’m thankful for you. For every one of you who read my words, make my recipes and encourage me with your comments every single day. You’re the reason why I blog and I hope you know how thankful I am for you.
Heidi - Apples Under My Bed
November 24, 2011 at 3:28 amLovely post. I miss my brother too. Have a beautiful Thanksgiving, Jenna. I’m Australian so clearly we don’t celebrate, but it’s nice to be reminded to be thankful. Not that we need a reminder, right? Eat some pumpkin pie for me,
Heidi xo
Lizzie
November 24, 2011 at 3:49 amMy heart broke for you that day, and it still does when I think of your loss. Much love to you, Happy Thanksgiving. <3
Averie @ Love Veggies and Yoga
November 24, 2011 at 4:11 amJenna, this is such a lovely post. Thank you for sharing your feelings that are from the heart.
I love coming to your blog and reading your recipes, reading your words and thoughts, and thank you for sharing it all with us, every step of the way. You inspire me!
Congrats on your book release date…and you and your family are in my thoughts today. Reading about your brother is always so bittersweet. ((HUGS))
skinny latte
November 24, 2011 at 4:16 amThank YOU for sharing your life, both the beauty and the sadness, with us, Jenna. Best of luck with all that is ahead of you, exciting times indeed 🙂 Happy Thanksgiving! xx
Rachel
November 24, 2011 at 4:31 amBeautiful. Thank you for being such an inspiration. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Amy @loveAmyx
November 24, 2011 at 4:40 amLovely post, how is your Granddad doing? I’ve been thinking of him alot.
Amy x
Meredith
November 24, 2011 at 4:45 amI really encourage you to start watching your nightly news. There is a lot of loss experienced and felt in the world right now.. The segments both bad (real life and the stories of our world are amazing – and make you realize the world is much much bigger than you alone) and good (watch the ‘making a difference’ reports) : they help you to climb outside yourself and your own things. You realize the world is a big big place and you never want to get to wrapped up in your own head or own place.
We all have dreams and we all deserve them. We all have loss and we all feel them deeply. Try not to suddenly feel that you are one sole being that feels this alone (which I sometimes get the impression bloggers do; getting caught up in the “self” world”).
Have a lovely day.
Amanda T
November 24, 2011 at 5:25 amLeave her alone!! Im sure she understands all the hurt going on in the world!! She’s just sharing what’s going on in her life right now. It doesn’t make her self centered to be writing about the understandable emotions that come with losing a loved one. Many of the readers have experienced the same emotions and it’s comforting to hear others accounts of similar tough times. We come to her blog to read about her “self world.” If I wanted to read about a woman who doesn’t allow a sad, sad unexpected life experience affect her…..I’d head on over to National Geographic to read a few articles on Mother Teresa. I don’t. I want to hear about and comfort Jenna through her life not to distant from mine.
I’m just saying.
Jen
November 24, 2011 at 5:51 amYou want to “comfort Jenna”? She’s a strong girl. I don’t think she is looking for sympathy here – I think she is simply sharing her experience.
Jessica
November 24, 2011 at 7:54 amFor shame, Meredith. And how do you know she DOESN’T watch the nightly news? She can’t grieve and mourn her loss because of other bad things happening in the world? So according to your comment the fact that I grieve and mourn my father every Thanksgiving because I miss him means “I’m too wrapped up in my own things” and “I think I’m the only SOUL who feels this alone”?
Not true for me and probably not true for Jenna. I’m sorry to be harsh but your comment is a bunch of crap. And the ‘Have a lovely day’ at the end makes it even crappier. I hope you know how bad your comment is making not just Jenna, but others feel. 🙁
Meredith
November 24, 2011 at 10:22 amIf a random comment makes you feel 🙁 , then I feel sorry for you.
I guess it puzzles me how you all like to praise bloggers.
And how bloggers often write as though it is them alone that feels any one loss or hope or dream.
I’ve read very very popular blogs where the writer will arrive in a state for a 2-day trip and not even realize they’ve been without electricity for over 2 weeks.
I get the impression that many bloggers dont even realize what takes place is the larger world around them.
But if you feel you have to read Jenna’s blog or some other blog to make YOU feel better about YOURself, then go ahead. I didn’t realize you were so attached to the computer.
Jessica
November 24, 2011 at 10:41 amYes you are absolutely right. I should be a strong enough person to not let a random comment bother me. But it did. I am human.
And nowhere in my comment did I praise Jenna. Your comment saddened me and I assumed it might sadden her. Reading blogs doesn’t make me feel better OR worse about myself., so the rest of your comment really has nothing to do with MY reply to YOU.
dingbatt
November 24, 2011 at 10:12 pmI rarely comment on any site, any blog, any discussion. Ever. Several times a week, I check this blog. It’s Jenna’s. Her recipes. Her passions. Her successes and dreams, Her failures and losses. Day to day experiences. A life evolving. I continue to follow this blog at my discretion. That discretion is a reflection on myself. It has nothing to do with this blog or its creator.
With that being said, I will be simple. Shame on you Meredith. Your character is questionable. Your motives may have been genuine, but you expressed yourself poorly. If your goal was to generate a larger awareness, I suspect you picked an inappropriate audience. Ultimately you came across as being hurtful, uninformed and vicious. Only you know what your motives were when you intentionally judged another person. Ugh. And again, shame.
M
November 25, 2011 at 10:49 amAh, thank you dingbatt!
Finally some common sense , and perhaps a nod towards
manners….
As a reader ,I appreciate your comment in this thread.
Heather
November 25, 2011 at 2:04 pmAs a blogger myself, I have to say your comment makes no sense whatsoever.
Jenna’s blog isn’t about the nightly news in her hometown or about the many woes of the world. Jenna’s blog is about food, food, more food and bits of her life.
And her Thanksgiving post was to say how thankful she is, and how far she has come in the past few years.
I see nothing wrong with that.
To me, it appears you have a BAD attitude and a beef with bloggers in general that makse no sense whatsoever.
Get real! And by the way, my advice?? don’t watch the nightly news, it’s depressing. If you want to do something good for the world, have a GOOD attitude, practice kindness and donate to charities for causes that move you.
And stop picking on people for no reason. Good grief.
Heather
November 25, 2011 at 2:09 pmand by the way, if you don’t want to hear about someone else’s “self” world, DO NOT READ A BLOG. This isn’t CNN!! It’s a BLOG.
Definition of BLOG
: a Web site that contains an online personal journal with reflections, comments, and often hyperlinks provided by the writer;
Kate
November 26, 2011 at 10:01 amI rarely comment, but I feel like your first comment was ridiculous Meredith. If you have been reading Jenna’s blog for any amount of time you would know that she is very aware of the world around her and that she never takes herself too seriously. She rarely talks about her brother’s passing, and I found your initial comment to be extremely disrespectful and ignorant. Stop reading blogs if you don’t want to read about the blogger’s personal life.
katie
November 27, 2011 at 2:23 pmOh my. I could not believe this comment. My mother died in December last year, she was only 57, I was only 28. This was our family’s first Thanksgiving without her. So I love Jenna’s honesty. This kind of loss isn’t something that goes away. I too was grateful for a beautiful day with my family but also sad that my lovely mother wasn’t there and will never be at a family dinner again. Jenna I am sorry you lost your brother so young. I admire your courage to be honest about your grief in a public forum. I believe that it is this kind of honesty that allows people to feel less alone in the world. And as a side comment – HELLO this is a blog about HER life. Write on sister!
Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat
November 24, 2011 at 4:52 amAww great post Jenna! Thank YOU for your endless inspiration, your delicious recipes, and gorgeous photos. I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving. 🙂
Ashlyn
November 24, 2011 at 4:53 amSo very touching Jenna. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family. You opened my eyes to a whole new culinary palate and I’ve experienced many new adventures in the kitchen. I’m sorry for your loss, truly deeply sorry. Please know you have made a difference in my life. I am really looking forward to your book. Xo
Urban Wife
November 24, 2011 at 5:00 amJenna, thank YOU for this post. It is such a great reminder that no matter what we are going through in life, there is always something to be thankful for. I will try and remember that today even when I feel the loss of our first child creeping back in and making me sad. Have a beautiful Thanksgiving with your family ~ you deserve every drop of happiness!
p.s. So excited about your book coming out!
chelsey @ clean eating chelsey
November 24, 2011 at 5:02 amI loved this post because it was real. Happy Thanksgiving – I’m sure your little brother is happy you’re finally home to share it with your family.
Hannah (Balancing on Two Feet)
November 24, 2011 at 5:09 amI am thankful for you Jenna! You were the first blog that I read almost three years ago and introduced me to speaking my truth in this wonderful community!
Lissa
November 24, 2011 at 5:31 amI’m thankful that you’re blogging full time now! We made your pumpkin cheesecake bites yesterday and I’m about to start on your flaky crescent rolls! Have a great Thanksgiving back with your family 🙂
Lacey
November 24, 2011 at 5:31 amThank you for this beautiful blog. I look forward to your posts – always fun, interesting, and wonderful.
Gina G
November 24, 2011 at 5:34 amBeautiful post Jenna. I hope you and your family have a very Happy Thanksgiving! 🙂
jen
November 24, 2011 at 5:42 amhonest and beautiful. thinking of you and your family on this day.
Happy Gratitude Day! | Balancing on Two Feet
November 24, 2011 at 5:53 am[…] Eat, Live, Run- The first blog I ever read […]
Jen
November 24, 2011 at 5:54 amHappy T-Giving! What pie did you end up making?
Also, do you wish you had went home sooner during those 3 years or do you think it happened so you could handle it better?
Fancy
November 24, 2011 at 5:55 amThinking of you and your family today <3
Gina @ Running to the Kitchen
November 24, 2011 at 6:02 amBeautiful post Jenna, enjoy your time with your family. Happy Thanksgiving.
Lauren
November 24, 2011 at 6:13 amSuch a beautiful post, Jenna. Thank YOU! 🙂 You show me everyday that life can be fun and that food is glorious and should be celebrated! <3
Lauren @ What Lauren Likes
November 24, 2011 at 6:15 amHappy Thanksgiving 🙂
Sally @ Spontaneous Hausfrau
November 24, 2011 at 6:30 amThis is a really beautiful post. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family!
amy walters, aDESIGNdock
November 24, 2011 at 6:33 amJenna, I always appreciate how truly “you” your posts are. Thank you for sharing the both the ups and downs in your life and for being “real” on this blog. I will be thinking of you and your family on this special day as your family gives thanks for what is good and grieves for the loss of your brother. xo
Mama Pea
November 24, 2011 at 6:44 amMuch love to you, Jenna.
Today I am reminded of the saying: There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone, the light remains.
There will be a light at our Thanksgiving table, and I know there will be one at yours too.
Happy Thanksgiving, friend.
jane
November 24, 2011 at 11:36 amis there a like button?
Ashley L
November 24, 2011 at 6:46 amHappy Thanksgiving Jenna. I am thankful to have you to inspire me and that you’ve allowed us to follow your life. You better believe I’ll be one of the first to buy your book! Have a wonderful thanksgiving!
Lacey @ Lake Life
November 24, 2011 at 6:51 amJenna, I am thankful for this post. My brother passed away 2 1/2 years ago at the age of 22 and your post really hit home for me. This post reminds me to be even more thankful for the family I do have and thankful for the 22 years that we had with my brother here.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Linda Schaack
November 24, 2011 at 6:58 amLovely post Jenna. I think that your posts are honest and simply talk about life . . . . the good, bad, sad, happy, exciting, mundane, interesting, revealing, little noticed aspects of life . . . your life . . . and we love reading about it. 🙂
I have been following your blog for 2 + years and love reading your story. Your recipes are guaranteed to be great – I come here often to find something new to try. Every single recipe has been great . . . trying the wild rice with caramelized shallots, cranberries and pecans for Thanksgiving dinner tonight.
Marie-Sophie
November 24, 2011 at 7:01 amIt’s the toughest things in life that shape us the most! So happy for you you’re ready to go back home on this date.
I always come to your blog when I need a “kitchen hug”, a blog place where I can relax and sit down, kind of grab a cup of tea and just be. It’s always wonderful to be able to feel your kitchen atmosphere when reading your posts!
Thanks, Jenna!
Jen
November 24, 2011 at 6:23 pmThat’s a wonderful and refreshing way to look at reading blogs!
thursdays link love
November 24, 2011 at 7:05 am[…] love this post on thankfulness. jenna’s writing is always […]
Leslie L. Means
November 24, 2011 at 7:06 amHappy Thanksgiving to you and your family!! Beautiful post – brought tears to my eyes.
Samantha
November 24, 2011 at 7:09 amHappy Thanksgiving Jenna !
Kelli H (Made in Sonoma)
November 24, 2011 at 7:11 amI really liked this post.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Megan
November 24, 2011 at 7:13 amI’m baking your pumpkin cheesecake bites today! Happy Thanksgiving 🙂
Sabrina @ Radioactive Runner
November 24, 2011 at 7:18 amLove this honest post.
Happy Thanksgiving to you, Jenna. Thank YOU for sharing your stories and recipes and for being so honest.
Ashley
November 24, 2011 at 7:21 amThis is beautiful, friend. My heart breaks for y’all but I know that God has come and filled that home and your hearts so you have the strength to get through days like today. Cliche as it sounds, I truly know your brother is watching down on you, thankful that you miss him, but smiling because where he is is so warm and peaceful. Hope you and your parents have a wonderful thanksgiving.
Ella, RD
November 24, 2011 at 7:33 amWow, thanks for this post, Jenna. Have a wonderful day with your family. I am thankful for your blog!
kelly
November 24, 2011 at 7:34 amBeautiful post. I, too, lost my only brother so I can relate to your pain. Thank you for your honesty in your writing. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving at home and give your folks an extra hug.
Ann
November 24, 2011 at 7:42 amBe well, Jenna. Enjoy the day.
Cait's Plate
November 24, 2011 at 7:49 amI loved this post. I definitely know that feeling. I lost my father 3 years ago and I think the first holidays without him were absolutely the hardest. I’m glad you’re able to be home with your family this year. Enjoy every moment Jenna – you deserve it.
Dana Bruxvoort
November 24, 2011 at 7:53 amAnd we’re thankful that you’re blogging! Wishing you and your family a joy-filled, hopeful Thanksgiving. Blessings!
Ashley
November 24, 2011 at 8:05 amJenna, whenever you talk about your brother I get teary-eyed. I remember reading your blog when it happened and how devastated you were and how heartbroken I was for you. I had just started reading your blog and I didn’t know much about you. You have proved to be the most positive person I have ever had the chance to know. You handled a tragedy with such grace and positivity that it really encouraged me to take a step back and look at my own life and reassess it. You still remain to be one of the most positive figures in my life, especially when I feel like I am surrounded by nothing but negativity, whether it is the people who are in my life, or the demons I fight daily in my head that try to bring me down (I mean my own negative thoughts. Those words you create in your own mind that drag you down). I really need to give thanks to you, for sharing your life with total strangers each day and proving to people that if we should ever experience a tragedy in our lives, an instance that could turn our whole world upside down, we need to grieve, move forward, live our lives as fully as we can, and never take a day for granted. I hope I don’t sound creepy, lol, but you were have inspired me to be a healthier, happier person and I am thankful for the day that I googled Jillian Michael’s 30-day-shred results and your blog popped up! You’re a role model! Thank you again, and keep on sharing those delicious recipes!
anon
November 24, 2011 at 8:09 amThank you Jenna for all that you do. I have truly been inspired by your blog and I can’t wait for your book. Best wishes to you and your family.
Meghan @ StruggleMuffins
November 24, 2011 at 8:38 amBeautiful post – a well-articulated reminder of what’s important and what to be thankful for. Hope you and your family have a lovely holiday.
aislin @ scribbles by a.
November 24, 2011 at 8:45 amsuch a heartfelt post. it is inspirational, and a perfect reminder of what to really be thankful for: all the times we’ve had to spend with our loved ones.
Raewyn
November 24, 2011 at 8:50 amA beautiful post, Jenna…thank you for sharing your heart. It’s part of why we love you, your writing, and your cooking. May your day be full of blessings, relaxation, and love. Keeping you, your family, and your brother in my prayers today. Happy Thanksgiving. 🙂
kerry Mcgee
November 24, 2011 at 8:55 amI’m thankful for YOU and your fabulous blog! Enjoy being home and have a wonderful Thanksgiving. 🙂
mythy as in "Mighty"
November 24, 2011 at 9:19 amJenna, I remember that day your brother passed…So thankful for your positivity and sincerity in each post you write. Happily awaiting your book!
Gobble gobble till you wobble wobble today! =)
jane
November 24, 2011 at 9:32 amhappy thanksgiving to you-grab mom and dad tight and share wonderful memories of your little brother! i think we all, me for sure, get caught up in the cooking and stress of holidays and forget what it is all about-spending time and sharing love and memories with the ones you love best. thank you for the reminder
Michelle S from Canada
November 24, 2011 at 9:42 amI just want to thank you for all you do. I don’t ever post but I read what you write and have a few of your recipes as my favorite go to recipes (late summer zucchini muffins are my husbands fave). I appreciate your blog and just wanted to let you know you do great things. Happy Thanksgiving to you and I look forward to your book!
RunEatRepeat
November 24, 2011 at 10:16 amHappy Thanksgiving. Enjoy <3
Lisa [With Style and Grace]
November 24, 2011 at 10:17 amBeautiful post, Jenna! So happy you are home with family and able to do what you love. I’m in a similar place and also incredibly grateful. Hope you have a wonderful thanksgiving my dear and maybe one of these days our paths will cross. Cheers!
Alycia
November 24, 2011 at 10:18 amWhat a lovely post. Thank you for your daily inspirations from your blog. We celebrated Thanksgiving 6 weeks ago here in Vancouver, but I am thinking of and thankful for all my wonderful American friends today 🙂
Paige (The Last Doughnut)
November 24, 2011 at 10:28 amI have been reading your blog since those days. When you switched to the mainly food format, I was kind of disappointed, because I really related to you as a person…and the new format seemed a cold in comparison. I have continued to follow you and your journey, because I know that there are many good things in your future. This was such a refreshing post. I’m glad to see a glimpse of the old Jenna. Thank you for sharing yourself with us.
Karen
November 24, 2011 at 11:13 amPeace and love to you on this Thanksgiving, sweet Jenna.
Mauimandy@The Grains of paradise
November 24, 2011 at 11:39 amBeautiful post…
I’m at work right now in Maui ( in the hotel industry ) on this Thanksgiving morning. I’m so greatful for this beautiful island and laid back lifestyle it offers but on days like today I would do anything to be back home in Northern California with my family. I have not been home for the holidays for 14 years because leaving work during high season is never possible. Sometimes there really is a price to pay to live in paradise…
Much aloha to you and your family.
Kristina
November 24, 2011 at 11:59 am(( hugs ))
Steffie
November 24, 2011 at 12:06 pmGreat post Jenna, I’ve been reading your blog for a little over two years and it’s been lovely to see you make your life exactly what you want it to be. Whenever life gets hard sometimes it’s nice to visit your blog and read your funny posts about different recipes and your travels, but also to hear words of wisdom from a strong and fantastic lady.
beka
November 24, 2011 at 12:31 pmjenna, i think you are just wonderful. and i hope you have a lovely thanksgiving!
Rachel
November 24, 2011 at 3:54 pmAnd we are thankful for you Jenna! Thank you for bringing cheer to your readers every day and for sharing your life with us. I thin I can speak for everyone when I say we are glad to be a part of your life. Hope you have a wonderful day with your family!
Nancy in Naples
November 24, 2011 at 4:39 pmBeautiful post, Jenna . . . so glad you are home with your Mom and Dad for Thanksgiving. Please say ‘hi’ from Nancy and Woody in Naples . . .
Tammy @ Palm Trees and Manatees
November 24, 2011 at 4:56 pmWhat a sweet, heartfelt post Jenna. I feel so lucky to have met you. Happy Thanksgiving!
M
November 24, 2011 at 5:09 pmJenna ,
when you write from your heart like this ,it hits me.
I do miss your old format where we really got to know you
as a person and your life-that was my favorite blog to read actually!
But I still do visit your blog because I got to “know” you a little back then, and liked Your post today reminds me of your “long agfo” posts-real and something that makes up all feel and think.Thank you for opening up a little again after all this time and for the heartfelt words.
I am thankful for the strength that so many of us somehow find within ourselves
losing a loved one too soon in life.It is one of the most painful things to ever face in life and yet we learn to face life head on because the alternative is to live without
feeling and hope. There are many of us out here who found strength,solace and common ground in your beautiful posts about your brother,and here we are again with another.
I am thankful at this moment for those who are brave enough to speak their truths and
bare their souls. Namaste.
Shan
November 24, 2011 at 6:34 pmI totally agree with M. Jenna, this post was so raw, and so YOU. I know that you’re taking your blog in a new direction, but I’m thankful for the fact you used to write in that ‘Jenna voice’ a lot of your readers (and I) love so much. I hope this comment doesn’t come across as passive aggressive.. Thank you for having shared so much of your life with us. I’m thankful for the internet because it connects strangers the world over 🙂
M
November 25, 2011 at 10:50 amYes ,and also hope my comment aabove wasn’t construed as hidden negativity,
because I honestly did not mean that at all!
Words are so tricky and have so many innuendos sometimes…
M
November 24, 2011 at 5:10 pmApologies for typos and mixed words above-pressed submit
without proofing!
Amanda
November 24, 2011 at 5:31 pmI’m grateful for you too Jenna, welcome home. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!
Caitlin
November 24, 2011 at 5:34 pmThis was lovely. Thank you for sharing such a poignant piece of your life with us.
kristin
November 24, 2011 at 6:54 pmHappy Thanksgiving Jenna!
Joelle (on a pink typewriter)
November 24, 2011 at 9:45 pmThank you for the heartfelt post.. I’ve been reading your blog since almost the beginning and it’s been incredible to watch your life grow and expand in three years. Hope you had a great day.:)
Ari @ Ari's Menu
November 25, 2011 at 6:39 amSo beautiful. Tears. Thank you for your honesty and beautiful words.
Chantal
November 25, 2011 at 6:43 amWhat an amazing story to share. This is why I love your blog.
Adrianna from A Cozy Kitchen
November 25, 2011 at 10:35 amMuch love to you, Jenna! XOXO Happy (belated) Thanksgiving!
Molly@RDexposed
November 25, 2011 at 10:52 amTotally thought the post was heading in a different direction. We need to be thankful for chaos and ordinary!
Justine @ Life With Cheeseburgers
November 25, 2011 at 1:12 pmBeautiful post, Jenna. I have been contemplating a lot of things in my own life lately, having just found out less than a week ago that a family member of mine only has a few more months to live. This holiday season I am cherishing the people in my life.
Congratulations on your book! I myself am looking at a publication date of May 2012 for the eating disorder recovery book I have been working on for nearly FIVE years now! Such a wonderful thing to see a dream finally beginning to come true!
gia
November 25, 2011 at 1:22 pmI’m sorry for your loss. I know that is part of your story and I find you and your family’s strength inspirational.
DessertForTwo
November 25, 2011 at 1:23 pmThanks for a peaceful and reflective post. I enjoyed reading it.
I understand your sentiments about wanting to be alone on Thanksgiving. I wanted that too this year, and got my wish in a small way, but then found myself upset by it.
Keep your chin up and keep working hard on achieving your goals 🙂
Heather
November 25, 2011 at 2:05 pmSuch a great post filled with thankfulness and a good attitude. All things that will get you far. Congrats on your book! Happy Thanksgiving!
Aimee from AL
November 25, 2011 at 2:09 pmThank you so much for sharing your love of food. I have sincerely enjoyed following your blog as I begin my love for food and cooking. You have made this incredible hobby become the passion that it is.
Katie Rogers
November 25, 2011 at 8:08 pmwhat a touching post Jenna! I am thankful for you and your blog. Reading it is often the highlight of my day. I find you so funny, refreshingly honest and a true old soul with such a young vibrant spirit. I imagine you have always been this way and always will! I look forward to following your adventures. (Thank you or sharing them!) Especially your upcoming yoga adventure! As a yoga teacher myself (nor-cal!), I am certain that you have the qualities to make a very special teacher. I am excited for you! Congrats on your book’s progress too!
Lu @ A Mix of it All
November 25, 2011 at 8:48 pmWe’re thankful for you, too. And your whoopie pies.
Aileen
November 25, 2011 at 9:51 pmHappy Thanksgiving Jenna! Hope your time at home with family is blessed. I love your blog and look forward to every post!
Erica
November 27, 2011 at 6:38 amI am beyond thankful for your friendship. I agree that out of our hard times, somehow, beautiful things emerge. And my friendship with you is one of them:-) Love you <3
Brittnie (A Joy Renewed)
November 27, 2011 at 1:57 pmBeautiful post, Jenna. Holidays are times of great memories of those that have gone before us but also hard b/c we want those loved ones with us so much. I lost my mom at age 7 and even though I just turned 29 I still have a hard time around the holidays. But like you said so well .. I am thankful!
Hannah
November 27, 2011 at 5:59 pmHi there!
Thanks for such a beautiful post. Your blog is my new fav to read!
Jessica Sepulveda
November 28, 2011 at 3:17 pmI’ve been reading your blog for, I dunno, at least a year…and I have to say that one of the highlights of my day is click onto ELR. Your posts, no matter what they are about, just make me smile. I LOVE the recipes, and wish I had more time to be able to cook all these delicious things you post. All in due time! I love your candidness, and how you pretty much put it all out there, not matter what is happening. If I had to choose a friend, you are one I’d like to have. And it’s not because you cook like really yummy looking food, but because you just tell it like it is…and you do it with class. Thank you for keeping this blog up-and for simply being you. Praying that God continues to bless you and lead your every step. Tis’ the Season to let people know (yes, even those we don’t personally know) how grateful we are for them…and that includes you. Love and blessings!